HIV positive man (54) flees to Zimbabwe after 'spreading Aids' in UK

A CONVICTED rapist who knowingly infected a woman with HIV in the UK is believed to have absconded to Zimbabwe.

Brian Tatenda Shayanowako, 54, of Lower Adelaide Street, Northampton was sentenced to 12 years in his absence after being found guilty at Aylesbury Crown Court of rape on 19 August.

Thames Valley Police issued a warrant for his arrest following the conviction.

The force has now revealed its search has been expanded to Africa.

A police spokeswoman said Shayanowako is believed to be in Zimbabwe and officers are liaising with international authorities to locate him.

She said: "Our inquiries are continuing and we are still attempting to locate him."

During the trial, Shayanowako also pleaded guilty to a count of recklessly wounding/inflicting grievous bodily harm.

In 2002 while living in Slough, Shayanowako injured a woman by pouring boiling water over her, scalding her chest and abdomen. In 2003 he raped her.

'Unprotected sex'

Between 2006 and 2010 Shayanowako had unprotected sex with the victim while knowing he had HIV.

Shayanowako came to the UK in 2001 and has lived in Slough and Milton Keynes, in addition to Northampton.

Speaking following August's hearing, investigating officer Det Con Charlotte McDonald, said: "We do not seek to criminalise those who live with HIV and we work closely with our partner agencies to ensure people are appropriately supported.

"However, this was a case in which someone has admitted recklessly transmitting HIV to another person."

Anyone with any information is urged to call Thames Valley Police. – bbc